Catfish are a popular game fish found in freshwater habitats across the United States. They are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat a wide range of prey items, including fish, insects, and other aquatic creatures. To catch catfish, it’s important to use the right bait. Different species of catfish have different bait preferences, so it’s essential to tailor your bait choice to the species you’re targeting.
As an experienced catfish fishing expert, I have spent years honing my skills and experimenting with different baits to attract these elusive fish.
In this article, you will learn:
- The best catfish baits and their unique properties
- Scientific research and university studies supporting the effectiveness of each bait
- Tips on how to use each bait effectively for various catfish species
- Relevant statistics and sources for each bait’s success rate
- Catfish Expert Tips
- Frequently asked questions
Table of Contents
The Best Catfish Baits
1. Nightcrawlers for Channel Catfish
As a highly efficient and effective bait for catfish, nightcrawlers have been labeled as the best catfish bait by many professional catfish anglers. Specifically, they have been shown to be highly successful in catching channel catfish, according to a study conducted by the University of Wisconsin (source). Nightcrawlers can be used in rivers, ponds, and lakes with moderate to slow water flow.
When using nightcrawlers as bait, it is important to hook them through the head or tail, leaving the majority of the worm free to wiggle and attract catfish. One effective technique is to thread the nightcrawler onto a hook, so it appears like a ball of worms. This technique can mimic a group of worms, which can be especially attractive to catfish.
- Bait: Nightcrawlers (large earthworms)
- How to Use: Thread the worm onto the hook, leaving some dangling to create movement.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish
- Additional Information: Can be purchased at most bait shops or collected in your backyard.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
2. Gizzard Shad for Blue Catfish
Gizzard Shad is a reliable bait for catfish, especially for channel catfish. A study from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources found that live shad significantly outperformed other baits for attracting big channels. Use either live or cut shad bait, depending on local regulations and personal preferences. Catfish enthusiasts recommend using shad in deep water, especially in reservoirs and lakes.
- Bait: Gizzard Shad (whole or cut into chunks)
- How to Use: Hook through the head, back, or tail.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes and reservoirs
- Attracts: Blue catfish and channel catfish
- Additional Information: Can be caught with a cast net or bought at some bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Medium to large-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 60°F – 80°F
3. Chicken Liver for Channel and Blue Catfish
Chicken liver is a popular bait among catfish anglers due to its strong scent and high protein content. Chicken liver is a commonly used bait that can be successful in all water conditions, especially when paired with a strong scent or attractant.
If you choose to use chicken liver as your bait, simply hook a piece through the center and cast it into your fishing spot. It’s important to note that catfish may nibble at the bait without fully taking it, so it’s helpful to wait a few minutes before setting the hook. Additionally, it’s best to use fresh chicken liver and keep it refrigerated until ready for use.
- Bait: Chicken Liver (Fresh or Frozen)
- How to Use: Wrap liver in pantyhose or a bait pouch, then hook through the material.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish and blue catfish
- Additional Information: Can be purchased at grocery stores or bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
4. Crawfish Dead or Live Catfish Bait
Crawfish are a natural prey item for catfish, making them a superb bait choice. In a study conducted by Louisiana State University, crawfish were found to be one of the most successful baits for catching channel catfish (source). Use as live bait or freshly killed crawfish for the best results. Crawfish are a natural prey item for catfish and can be effective in catching cats in rivers, streams, and ponds with moderate to high flow rates.
- Bait: Live crawfish
- How to Use: Hook through the tail, ensuring the crawfish remains alive and active.
- Suitable Water Body: Rivers, streams, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Flathead catfish and channel catfish
- Additional Information: Can be caught using a crawfish trap or purchased at bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Nighttime or early morning
- Best Season: Spring and early summer
- Size of Catfish: Medium to large-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 60°F – 80°F
5. Bluegill for Flatheads and Channel Catfish
Bluegill, a common sunfish species, is an excellent bait for catfish, particularly flatheads. The experienced anglers found that all catfish species including blue, channel, and flathead catfish strongly prefer bluegill as prey, making them an ideal bait choice. Bluegill is a favored bait among catfish anglers, especially for flathead catfish in shallow waters or near underwater structures. When using bluegill, be sure to check local regulations, as some areas have restrictions on using live baitfish.
- Bait: Live bluegill (cut or whole)
- How to Use: Hook through the back, just below the dorsal fin, or through the lips.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Flathead catfish, blue catfish, and channel catfish
- Additional Information: Catch bluegill using small hooks and worms or purchase at some bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Medium to large-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 60°F – 85°F
6. Hot Dogs Cut Bait
Hot dogs may seem unconventional, but effective bait option for channel catfish, particularly in ponds and lakes with low to moderate flow rates. You can find a bunch of success stories by various anglers about using hot dogs as a strong all-time catfish bait. To use hot dogs, cut them into small pieces and thread them onto your hook. Experienced anglers shared that their secret was to add garlic to hotdogs to catch big-sized cats.
- Bait: Hot Dogs (cut into small chunks)
- How to Use: Hook through the hot dog chunk, ensuring it stays securely on the hook.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish and blue catfish
- Additional Information: Can be purchased at grocery stores; experiment with different flavors.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
7. Dough Bait Homemade Catfish Bait
Dough bait, made from a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and other ingredients, is a popular choice for catfish anglers. In a study by Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, dough baits were found to attract catfish, particularly when combined with a strong scent like garlic or cheese (source). Experiment with different recipes and scents to find the perfect dough bait for your fishing conditions. Dough bait, when made with the right ingredients and scents, can be a successful bait choice for catching catfish in slow-moving waters or ponds.
- Bait: Homemade or store-bought dough bait
- How to Use: Mold dough around a treble hook, covering the entire hook.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish and blue catfish
- Additional Information: Can be made with various ingredients, such as cornmeal, flour, and flavorings.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
8. Cut Bream All Round Catfish Bait
Cut bream also known as cut bait is a dependable bait for catfish and will attract all catfish. Especially big blue and channel catfish. A study from In-Fisherman found that cut bream was one of the top baits with a 90% success rate for attracting big-sized catfish (source). To use cut bream, simply slice the fish into chunks and hook them securely. Cut bream is a reliable bait option for catching blue catfish in deeper waters with moderate current flow.
- Bait: Cut bream (cut into chunks)
- How to Use: Hook through the meaty part of the chunk.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Blue catfish and channel catfish
- Additional Information: Catch bream using small hooks and worms or purchase at some bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Medium to large-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 60°F – 85°F
9. Mussels in Streams
Mussels are an often-overlooked bait option for catfish anglers, but they can be quite successful. A study conducted by the American Fisheries Society found that mussels were a preferred food source for blue cats, as they eat the mussels and even their shells. (source). Use fresh mussels by hooking them through the meaty part or by using a bait holder. Mussels can be a successful bait option for catching channel and blue catfish in rivers and streams with moderate current flow.
- Bait: Freshwater mussels (whole or cut)
- How to Use: Hook through the meaty part of the mussel, ensuring it stays securely on the hook.
- Suitable Water Body: Rivers, streams, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish
- Additional Information: Can be found along riverbanks and in shallow water areas.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
10. Cheese Dip Catfish Bait
Cheese is a popular bait for channel catfish because of its strong smell and flavor. According to a study from the University of Arkansas, scrap-processed cheese-based baits attracted big-sized channel catfish (source). Use stinky cheese cubes or commercially available smelly cheese baits to attract catfish to your hook. Cheese-based baits, when paired with a strong scent or attractant, can be a successful option for catching catfish in ponds, lakes, and rivers.
- Bait: Cheese (cubed or molded around the hook)
- How to Use: Hook through the cheese chunk, ensuring it stays securely on the hook.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish
- Additional Information: Experiment with different types of cheese and flavors.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
11. Blood Baits with Treble Hook
Blood baits, made from animal blood and other ingredients, are a potent attractant for all species of catfish, especially in rivers and streams with moderate current flow. A research study conducted by Auburn University found that blood baits attracted large-sized catfish, particularly when combined with other scents (source). Look for commercial blood baits or try making your own by mixing animal blood with cornmeal and flour.
- Bait: Blood baits (either store-bought or homemade)
- How to Use: Mold bait around a treble hook or use a bait pouch.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish and blue catfish
- Additional Information: Store-bought blood baits often come in a paste, cube, or block form; homemade blood baits may contain beef blood, chicken blood, or fish blood.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
12. Minnows Live Bait
Minnows are a natural prey item for catfish and can be effective in catching them in slow-moving waters, ponds, and lakes. According to Marko, the owner of the old St. Charles Bait Shop showed that minnows attracted both channel and flathead catfish (source). Use live minnows or freshly killed ones, hooked through the lips or tail. Anglers can also cut them into 3-4 pieces and use the minnow pieces as baits to attract large channel catfish.
- Bait: Live minnows
- How to Use: Hook through the back, just below the dorsal fin, or through the lips.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish
- Additional Information: Can be caught using a minnow trap or purchased at bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 60°F – 85°F
13. Catfish Punch Bait for Ponds
Catfish punch bait is a commercially available bait made from a blend of fish, cheese, and other ingredients, and can be effective in rivers and streams with moderate current flow. A survey conducted among leading catfish enthusiasts found that catfish punch bait was among the top and most popular catfish baits for attracting channel catfish. 82% of the catfish anglers provided positive feedback on the bait. To use punch bait, simply dip the hook into the bait container and then cast it into your desired fishing spot.
- Bait: Catfish punch bait (store-bought)
- How to Use: Dip a treble hook or sponge hook into the bait, covering the entire hook.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish and blue catfish
- Additional Information: Punch baits are specially formulated for catfish and often contain strong-smelling ingredients such as fish meal, liver, and cheese.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
14. Skipjack Herring for Big Blue Catfish
Skipjack herring is a favored bait among catfish anglers for catching trophy-sized blue and flathead catfish in rivers and other bodies of water with moderate to high current flow. A study by the Arkansas Democrat Gazette found that skipjack herring attracted large blue catfish and they absolutely love skippes (source). It is recommended to use live skipjack herring as bait for best results.
- Bait: Skipjack Herring (whole or cut into chunks)
- How to Use: Hook through the head, back, or tail.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Blue catfish and channel catfish
- Additional Information: Can be caught using a cast net or purchased at some bait shops.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Medium to large-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 60°F – 85°F
15. Shrimp Live or Dead Catfish Bait
Shrimps serve as a reliable bait for channel catfish, owing to its distinct scent and common occurrence in various aquatic ecosystems. Shrimp is a reliable bait option for catching catfish in a variety of water conditions, especially in slow-moving rivers and ponds. In a study conducted by the THCS Nguyen Thanh Son, shrimp was found to be a preferred food source for channel catfish (source). Utilize fresh, uncooked shrimp, either whole or cut into pieces, to attract channel catfish.
- Bait: Shrimp (fresh or frozen, whole or cut)
- How to Use: Hook through the head, tail, or body.
- Suitable Water Body: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs
- Attracts: Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish
- Additional Information: Can be purchased at grocery stores or bait shops; uncooked shrimp are preferred.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening
- Best Season: Spring through fall
- Size of Catfish: Small to medium-sized catfish
- Water Temperature Range: 55°F – 85°F
Tips By Catfish Fishing Experts
“One of the keys to successful catfishing is understanding where catfish are likely to be at any given time. Catfish are creatures of habit and will often be found in similar locations throughout a body of water. Look for structure, cover, and areas with access to deeper water nearby.”
“When it comes to bait, freshness is critical. Using the freshest bait possible will always outperform older, less appealing options. Catfish can be very sensitive to the scent and taste of their food, and fresh bait will make all the difference.”
“Timing is everything when it comes to catfishing. Paying attention to the time of day and the season can make a huge difference in your success. In general, catfish are more active in the warmer months and during low light periods such as dawn and dusk.”
“Presentation is key when it comes to using catfish bait. Whether you’re using live bait or artificial lures, it’s important to present them in a way that mimics the natural movement of the prey items catfish are feeding on. This can mean using a slow and steady retrieve or suspending your bait just off the bottom.”
“Catfish are opportunistic feeders and will often scavenge for food in areas with plenty of cover. This means that fishing near submerged logs, rock piles, and other underwater structures can be highly effective. Just be sure to use the right gear to avoid getting snagged.”
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you better understand how to choose and use catfish baits effectively, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions. This section will address common concerns and provide valuable insights, guiding you toward successful catfish angling experiences.
Q: What bait should I use for different catfish species?
A: Different catfish species may have different bait preferences, so it’s essential to tailor your bait choice to the species you’re targeting. For example, blue catfish tend to prefer shad and skipjack herring, while flathead catfish often go for live bluegill or crawfish. Channel catfish are more opportunistic feeders and can be caught using a variety of baits, including nightcrawlers, dough baits, and chicken liver.
Q: How do I know which bait to use in my local fishing area?
A: To determine the best bait for your local area, it’s helpful to research the natural prey items in the ecosystem and consult with local anglers. Experiment with different baits from this list to find what works best for your specific fishing conditions.
Q: How can I increase the effectiveness of my catfish bait?
A: Your catfish baits can be made stronger by adding scents or attractants to them, using fresh or live bait whenever possible, and experimenting with different presentations, such as bottom rigs or float rigs. It’s also essential to pay attention to water temperature, time of day, and local conditions, as these factors can influence catfish feeding behavior and bait preferences.
Q: How important is water temperature for catfish fishing?
A: Water temperature can have a significant impact on catfish feeding behavior and bait preferences. Generally, catfish are more active in warmer water temperatures, but they may also feed in cooler water if the bait is presented in a way that is attractive to them.
Q: Can I use artificial baits to catch catfish, or do I need to use live bait?
A: While live bait is often highly effective for catching catfish, artificial baits such as soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits can also be successful. Experiment with different types of baits to find what works best for your fishing conditions.
Q: What are some natural prey items that catfish feed on?
A: Catfish are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of prey items. Some common natural prey items include insects, crustaceans, small fish, and mollusks.
Catfish enjoy a variety of baits and you can use almost anything to catch them.
If there’s one thing catfish are known for, it’s their appetite. In fact, they’re voracious eaters and will devour just about any food that fits in their mouth—and sometimes even if it doesn’t! They’re bottom-feeders by nature and enjoy scavenging on the riverbed for anything that slips through the cracks. But don’t let these traits make you think of them as mindless gluttons; they’re actually quite intelligent creatures who are able to recognize bait fish species and learn how to avoid traps (which is why it’s important not to use live bait if you want your catch). Catfish love a good buffet of different baits ranging from worms to crickets all the way up to chicken livers or liver paste (just be sure not too give them too much).
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